Saudi authorities had ceased issuing public warnings about potential attacks in the days before a series of strikes on Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport that left at least 18 people dead and more than 300 injured.
The Houthi group, backed by Iran, has carried out multiple attacks on Saudi territory amid the ongoing conflict. Four such attacks occurred in the past week, including the one targeting the airport terminal.
Officials told regional analysts that the decision to pause warnings was intended to project an image of normalcy and security. The Civil Defence and government media office have not responded to questions about the change in policy.
The attacks have raised concerns among residents and visitors about the effectiveness of protective measures. Airport operations were suspended for a period after the strikes.
Saudi forces have warned of a strong response to the Houthi actions, which the group describes as retaliation for Saudi operations in Yemen.